NOVEMBER 30, 2021 – The New York Staff Band was thrilled to support the Greater New York Division recently on Giving Tuesday (an annual holiday that promotes donations to non-profits) and traveled to the heart of New York City to help launch their Annual Kettle Kickoff. A small ensemble from the band gathered in Times Square underneath the Giant Red Kettle – the largest kettle in the world! – and played a selection of carols for several hours to entertain passerby and start off the Christmas season. The band was thrilled to be joined by a number of leaders across the Salvation Army: Major Stewart Dalrymple gave several interviews to TV networks about how the Greater New York division is active in the community during the Christmas season; Commissioner William Bamford gave a powerful message to passerby proclaiming the love of God and sharing the mission of The Salvation Army; and the group was also joined by National Commander, Commissioner Kenneth Hodder, who traveled from National HQ in Virginia to be with us for the occasion. Commissioner Hodder even showed us some of his dance skills as he danced with Captain Chaka Watch and Lt. Clifford Douglas in front of the red kettle! We received lots of positive feedback from the community and many crowds formed during the morning to hear the music and see what all the excitement was about. The event was a rousing success and it was wonderful to play some Christmas carols in support of the kettle kickoff.
Daniel Wajda (NYSB Flugel)
